Ayurveda Certification: FAQ

Is this classroom training or one-on-one mentoring?We offer one-on-one training with your teacher for the most personal learning approach using teaching methods.In some cases we may offer student webinars.

How does the training work?Each month you receive your homework in an email. You have one month to complete the work, and starting the 3rd month, you also get the opportunity to begin your hands-on practicum. This unique learning approach is like a 'learning blast-off', accelerating your understanding, confidence, and success with clients because experience is a true teacher. We only truly learn from experience.

Is the program accredited?As of yet there is no state or national board of education licensing/ accreditation; Government officials told us that only when there are many schools and much greater public interest do they become interested to develop licensing procedures. Students looking to earn a BA in Ayurveda or, MA, or PhD in any integrative field may transfer their credits to Westbrook University. Contact Westbrook for full details of accepted credits.Phone: 800-447-6496Web: http://www.westbrooku.eduE-mail: wuadmissions@verizon.net

Also, many respected, accredited colleges, especially those offering self- designed degrees accept this course. Check with the state and private colleges and universities in your area.

WHo recognizes this program?The textbook we published, the Ayurveda Encyclopedia, written by the founder of this school (Swami Sadashiva Tirtha), has gained international respect. It is being used in research libraries of some of the top Ayurvedic herb companies, and in some Ayurveda college classrooms (unofficially) throughout India.

Moreover, many Ayurvedic doctors in India and around the world have obtained the book for their own professional use. In the USA, several university research departments are also using the encyclopedia as a their research guide.

As the Indian government regulates all Ayurveda colleges in that country; there can be no official recognition for schools outside of the country.

Are graduates legally allowed to practice Ayurveda; are they recognized by the government?The US federal government has no laws or requirements regarding the practice of Ayurveda. Check with your state to know their specific laws on holistic health practitioners. Generally, graduates are legally allowed to practice Ayurveda as long as they do not use words that might imply they are doctors or nurses (eg, ‘treat’, ‘diagnose’, ‘prescribe’, ‘clinic’). Acceptable alternative terms include analyze, suggest, center.

What is involved in the hands-on guided consultation training?Our students report to us that the hands-on training, lectures, and articles crystallize their learning and confirm how much they know.Theoretical understanding is insufficient to confidently develop one’s abilities.

We have been offering our unique comprehensive practicum online since the 1990's – regardless where students live in the world – is simplified through the program’s 7-Step Consultation Workbook Guide template. This allows students to step by step organize, easily analyze dosha and illness causes, and suggest appropriate therapies.

Each student is required to do 40 mock consultations. Half of them are initial mock-consultations and half are follow-ups to the first 20 so students may see the results of their efforts and provide further guidance if required.

With the completion of the mock consultations, students no longer have the question, “Can I really be a practitioner?” – they have seen the results over the two years, and thus are confident and ready to begin their practice.

What is involved in the article and lecture?Each student is required to write one introductory article and give one free lecture during year 1. The articles may be general in nature or related to your field. For example you may write an article about ‘What is Ayurveda’ and offer it to your local free paper or local free holistic paper. If you have a profession that you will be incorporating Ayurveda into (e.g., psychology, nutrition, fitness) you may write a paper on how Ayurveda helps clients in our field and submit it to a professional journal.

The lectures may be to local clubs (e.g., Rotary, Flower), library, professional medical group, clients, etc. In this way these two exercises will help solidify your understanding and develop more self-confidence in your training while performing some community service for Ayurveda. Students tell us these community-sharing experiences really boost their confidence as they see themselves serving their local population.

Is there any spiritual training involved in the program?Yes, Vedanta & Vaishnavism (universal love – universal spiritualism – are the underlying foundations of Ayurveda and is integrated into the program. Students are also asked to choose some sort of meditation, hatha yoga, tai chi, etc. program in their hometown of their liking to experience spiritual development.

Do you waive courses for graduates of other Ayurveda certification programs & BAMS?There is a placement exam for basic theory. If passed, students waive the first 3 months of theory (though are required to complete the 6 consultations for those months). Exam is $150. Waive saves $400.

What is involved in the final exams?The course teaches how to research, cross-reference the books; the exams are open book. We would rather you reference books and be there with the client in the present, rather than worry about memorization. Of course you need to understand the basic principles. All reading materials are sent to you (additional shipping fee for international students). Homework and final are e-mailed or mailed.

When do the program sessions begin?You may begin any time after meeting prerequisites because it is a personal, one-on-one training with your teacher.Ideally we suggest you begin on an astrologically auspicious day such as a new moon, solstice or equinox.It has been found when aligning ourselves with the rhythms of nature we get an added edge or boost by riding the waves rather than fighting them.

After graduating can I receive support from the school?Yes.

We list graduates on our site

You can take advanced study for individual consultations you require additional advice on.

What are the credit hours earned?Earn up to 1,270 credit hours!

Are internships in India offered?India-advanced internships are available on a case-by-case basis for post-graduates. We visit the Himalayas in India each September. We have three excellent vaidyas (Ayurvedic doctors) with whom we established a close relationship.

One vaidya is female and offers specific OB/GYN training to ladies. She and her husband (another vaidya) run two Ayurveda centers. The third vaidya has his own clinic and is the head of the Kayachikitsa department at Haridwar’s India government Ayurveda college (see advisor’s bios advisors ).

Is your school affiliated with any Ayurvedic centers or schools in India?We are affiliated with a dean of the Ayurveda College in Haridwar, and graduates may take advanced training with him. (see above), and the Himalayan Ayurveda Spa (training programs)